Catering Operations Manager

Sodexo Ltd; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading services organization in Maidstone is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee 15-20 school sites. This role involves managing teams, ensuring quality service delivery, and maintaining strong client relationships. The ideal candidate will have experience in cost management, excellent communication skills, and a valid UK driving licence. Benefits include a competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and wellness support. Join us to make a meaningful impact!

Benefits

Flexible benefit fund

Company car

Mental health support platform

Employee Assistance Programme

Virtual GP service

Exclusive discounts

Pension Plan

Learning and development opportunities

Bike to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing food and labour costs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships.
• Owns a full, valid UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Manage the performance of 15-20 school sites within geographical area.
• Line manage site teams, providing support and guidance.
• Act as the day-to-day contact for clients, maintaining relationships.

Skills

Financial awareness

Communication skills

Relationship management

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Team management

Quality focus

Basic reporting

Cooking skills

Job description

Join Our Team as an Operations Manager – Make an Impact Every Day

Location: Kent area
Days/Shift Pattern: Monday to Friday
Total Hours Per Week: 40 Hours
Salary: £40,000 per annum plus £1,300 flexible benefit fund and a company car

At Sodexo, we believe in delivering outstanding service, fostering meaningful experiences, and empowering our teams to thrive. We’re on the lookout for a passionate and motivated Operations Manager to become an integral part of our dynamic team. If you’re ready to drive excellence in our schools, this is the opportunity for you!

What you’ll do

• Actively manage the performance of 15-20 school sites within geographical area
• Line manage site teams, providing support and guidance as required
• Hold regular team meetings to monitor performance, share company updates and encourage collaboration.
• Complete and submit the relevant daily reports, as required by Company, Site and Legal standards
• Forecast and manage staff levels to ensure adequate cover at all times; backfilling key roles/skill gaps personally, if no alternative option is available
• Complete invoicing/billing for schools in area of responsibility
• Develop and ensure a high focus on employee safety and positive client relations – ensuring that clients know you are on site and for what added value reasons.
• Act as the day‑to‑day contact for clients, establishing and maintaining strong relationships.

For a list of responsibilities please view the attached job description

What We’re Looking For

• Financial awareness and proven experience in managing food and labour costs
• Professional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt style to either internal or external audience
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships
• Organised and efficient ways of working
• Identify and provide effective solutions to issues and challenges
• Ability to manage a team effectively
• Driven by a focus on quality and standards
• Basic reporting abilities
• Owns a full, valid UK driving licence
• Ability to cook to required site standards

What We Offer

At Sodexo, this is more than just a job—it’s your chance to be part of something greater. We celebrate individuality, encourage purpose‑driven work, and empower you to succeed on your own terms. Here’s what you can expect when you join us:

• A competitive salary & excellent benefits package.

• Opportunities for career growth and development.

• A diverse, supportive, and inclusive workplace.

Additional Perks & Benefits

• Unlimited access to an online mental health and wellbeing support platform.
• An Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal support.
• 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
• Exclusive discounts for you, your family, and friends through the Sodexo Discounts Scheme.
• Membership in the Mercer Aspire Pension Plan to help you save for your future.
• Learning and development opportunities to enhance your career growth.
• A Bike to Work Scheme, supporting both your fitness and the environment.

Ready to Be Part of Something Greater?

If you’re looking for an opportunity where you can bring your passion, skills, and ambition to a company that truly values you, then this is it. Apply today and take the next step in your Sodexo journey.

Friendly customers. Vibrant communities. Exciting careers.

Please note: Sodexo reserves the right to close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications.

Sodexo are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children within schools. All successful candidates will undergo appropriate background, PVG (disclosure) and vetting checks.